Snow is quite literally the greatest foundation for making memories with kids. Fantastic ski schools and childcare facilities are just the start of what makes a family ski trip great (and they mean you get some grown-up time too), but the activities and snow parks are what really seal the deal. Here’s our pick of the top 10 family ski experiences.
1. La Clusaz, Toboggan Heaven
Tobogganing is always a hit with the kids. La Clusaz has a fantastic range of toboggan runs for all the family, from a gentle 120m long slope to faster, steeper runs for thrill seekers. The runs within the village are easy to access with small children.
Stay At:
Chalet Le Coeur is located in the ski resort of La Clusaz and sleeps up to eight guests.
2. All Inclusive Bliss in Les Arcs
The feeling of turning up at your destination and having everything you need in one place is ideal for families. Club Med Les Arcs Panorama covers it all in style. Dining, childcare, lift passes and more, all included, plus fantastic facilities such as a gym, swimming pool, spa and three restaurants.
Stay At:
Club Med Les Arcs Panorama is a fantastic ski-in ski-out resort hotel. The ultra all-inclusive resort offers everything from meals to ski lessons and childcare.
3. Aquariaz Waterpark
Take a break from the winter conditions to enjoy a different climate in the mountains, in Avoriaz’s amazing sub-tropical waterpark, Aquariaz. It’s easy to access from the main village, so wherever you’re staying, you’re only minutes away. Who doesn’t love a good old waterslide?
Stay At:
The Hotel Mil8 in Avoriaz sits in the heart of town, with great access to all the resort has to offer.
4. Flying Fox Zipline
Is it flying or falling with style? The Flying Fox Zipline in Saalbach-Hinterglemm is an exhilarating experience on the mountain. Zip through the alpine landscape at up to 130 kph from an altitude of 1,600m. You will be 140m above the ground on one of the fastest and longest ziplines in the world. A must-do for thrill-seekers.
Stay At:
Alpin Resort and Spa has excellent modern and stylish facilities, including indoor and outdoor swimming pools, two hot tubs, a sauna and a steam room.
5. Fondue Night in Zermatt
Enjoy dreamy cheese fondue at the cosy family-friendly Whymper-Stube restaurant in Zermatt, with an impressive Matterhorn mountain backdrop. A great winter dish to share!
Stay At:
One of the leading hotels in the Alps, Zermatt’s Mont Cervin Palace is located near the Gornergrat station in the centre of town.
6. Bobsleigh Speed
This is a real treat and makes you feel rather Olympic. The bobsleigh ride in La Plagne, France truly gets your adrenaline going, as you experience what 3.5gs of force and speeds of up to 100kph feel like. It was built for the 1992 Winter Olympic Games and has been a popular activity within the ski resort ever since. Available for children aged 14 and older.
Stay At:
With modern design and minimalist décor, staying at Hotel Belle Plagne Vacances Bleues is a stylish and relaxing experience.
7. Dog-sled Rides in Norway
In Beitostølen, Norway there’s an amazing husky sleigh ride you can book during your stay. It’s an enjoyable experience for all the family to admire the incredible scenery and nature. Locals will take you around the best vantage points and areas, whilst controlling the huskies. Just sit back and enjoy the ride.
Stay At:
The Radisson Blu Mountain Resort in Beitostølen is a family friendly hotel situated in a great location with superb facilities.
8. Aim High at Aethos Monterosa
Located 600m above Champoluc in Italy, Aethos Monterosa is like no other ski accommodation. The five-star hotel has an indoor climbing wall for guests to enjoy – suitable for all levels. In addition, it has top-class facilities such as a sauna, steam room, whirlpool, fitness suite and indoor pool. Fantastic for an active family.
Stay At:
Aethos Monterosa in Champoluc is a contemporary eco-resort, a perfect base for those who are passionate about skiing and the environment.
9. Mountain Disco in Norway
Geilo hosts an evening outdoor disco for children (or Barne Disco) at the end of the week during the season. They can enjoy night-skiing in an incredible setting – with top tunes and giant glowsticks thrown in for a little extra magic.
Stay At:
Vestlia Resort in Geilo is an amazing four-star hotel located just 50m from the ski school, lifts and childcare.
10. Engelberg’s SnowXpark
Engelberg’s snowXpark is a thrill seekers’ paradise. Kids aged 10 and older can ride specially designed electric-powered snowXmobiles. Imagine a go-kart track on snow and ice that’s 1km long with up to six riders racing at a time. If you feel the need for speed, this is an awesome family activity.
Stay At:
Hotel Kempinski Palace is a luxury escape in Engelberg, with beautiful scenery and skiing.
To find out more about our family ski experiences, call our ski experts on 020 3553 1863.
